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The Journal
04-07-2025
- Politics
- The Journal
During a reflective day in Hiroshima, the Taoiseach is reminded it's a small world
Christina Finn reports from Osaka 'THE WORLD IS indeed a small place', Taoiseach Micheál Martin said today after meeting with Teruko Yahata, a survivor of the Hiroshima atomic bombing in 1945. She was just eight years old when the bomb was dropped on her home city. The Taoiseach said he was moved by her testimony, stating that she told him how her family had moved to the hills, but when they came back down there was 'rows of people coming back up with burns and skin peeling off their arms'. She also spoke about the burns and shrapnel that had been stuck in her mother's back and of all her friends who were killed that day. Her daughter ended up getting married to an Irishman living in the UK and her grandson, called Conor, is now a doctor working in London, hence the small world reference made by the Taoiseach today. Yahata remains a very committed campaigner for the ending of nuclear weapons in war. In 2013, she was appointed by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs as Ambassador for Denuclearization. She started activities as an atomic bomb witness for the Hiroshima Peace Culture Foundation in 2019. She began taking English lessons at the age of 83, in order to speak about the terrible reality and suffering in her own voice and words. Advertisement Never far from home The Taoiseach travelled to Hiroshima today to lay a wreath at the cenotaph and to ring the Peace Bell at the site, and while it was a sombre place, there were light moments that reminded him that you're never really far from home. When walking over towards the concrete, saddle-shaped monument covering the cenotaph, which holds the names of all of the people killed by the atomic bomb, the Taoiseach was stopped by Sarah Collins from Tipperary and Alan Rattigan from Galway who were on a visit to the city. 'Can we get a picture Mr Taoiseach?' said Collins and the Taoiseach happily obliged. 'Are you going to beat Kilkenny?' he asked. 'Let's hope so,' she replied, telling the Taoiseach she has her jersey in the bag ready for Sunday. 'Are you enjoying your trip,' she asked. 'Yes, we're back tomorrow though,' said the Taoiseach. Sarah Collins and Alan Rattigan taking a selfie with the Taoiseach. Christina Finn Christina Finn He later bumped into another couple from Meath who were also holidaying in Japan. A bustling city While many who hear the word 'Hiroshima' think of the devastated and ravaged landscape, such as those seen in photos from 1945, the city is far from desolate. Related Reads Chicken fillet rolls and Cork City: Taoiseach tries to pull the strings for more trade with Japan This Irish embassy in Japan is the state's most expensive building constructed outside Ireland It is now a bustling city and a must-see place for holidaymakers to visit in Japan. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was abuzz with groups of tourists and school children, all there to pay their respects to the thousands that were killed. The Taoiseach was just like them at times. While he is in Japan on business, his days a s history student were evident today, when he had his phone out and was taking photos of the Peace Bell and the other memorials for his own personal collection. While the atomic bomb was dropped 80 years ago this year, there were plenty of parallels being drawn with the present day geopolitical situation. Martin said the world is in a very dangerous place with the threat of nuclear weapons still a reality. The Taoiseach told Japanese reporters today that the reason he was here was to reaffirm Ireland's commitment to peace, telling the media that there are too many wars and conflicts in the world right now. However Mayor of Hiroshima Kazumi Matsui today spoke about the need to break the 'cycle of hatred', stating that while survivors of the atomic bomb have had to live through the most unthinkable of experiences they don't want anyone else to suffer as they have. 'That is the very strong message that our survivors have now,' he said. 'They overcame their hatred,' he said, stating that standing before the cenotaph 'we say we shall not repeat the evil or the mistakes'. Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone... A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation. Learn More Support The Journal
The Journal
03-07-2025
- Business
- The Journal
Chicken fillet rolls and Cork City: Taoiseach tries to pull the strings for more trade with Japan
Christina Finn reports from Osaka MICHEÁL MARTIN SAYS he needs to have words with European Commissioner and Fianna Fáil colleague Michael McGrath. Not to discuss anything serious to do with European affairs, but to ask why Cork City is not listed as a city at the photo station at the EU Pavilion at Expo 2025 in Osaka. The Taoiseach was attending the global exhibition of cutting-edge technology and industry, taking a tour of the Ireland Pavilion and pavilions operated by the EU and UN. Sitting down in front of the camera, he was asked to choose where in Ireland he would like his photo superimposed into. He chose the option of 'cities'. 'You better have Cork,' he joked to one of the pavilion ambassadors. Christina Finn / TheJournal Christina Finn / TheJournal / TheJournal She laughed, not knowing how seriously this country leader takes his homestead. Only Dublin, she told him. 'Ah for God's sake, is that all you have, come on. I'll choose Dublin then. But I must tell Commissioner McGrath,' he said, smiling as he had his photograph taken. Sweltering heat in Osaka Expo 2025, which is expected to attract 28 million visitors over six months, was jam-packed with visitors today, despite the 33 degree sweltering heat. Christina Finn Christina Finn Ireland is one of 150 countries participating in the Expo, with the Taoiseach's visit today forming a key marking on his trip to Japan this week which the main focus has been on promoting trade links between the two countries. Advertisement The Journal / YouTube Over €16 million spent Irish participation in Expo has cost more than €16 million over the past three years, with the pavilion itself accounting for nearly €7 million. The Taoiseach defended the spend today, telling reporters that trade between Japan and Ireland is €21 billion and it is growing every year. Ireland is selling more to Japan than the Japanese is to Ireland, he said, stating 'you have to look at in that context'. Taoiseach at the Ireland Pavilion at Expo 2025. Christina Finn / TheJournal Christina Finn / TheJournal / TheJournal Any links between the two countries were being gleaned on today. One Japanese staff member working at the Irish Pavilion is a 'culinary expert', the Taoiseach was told while getting his tour. The staff member laughed as he told the Taoiseach how he'd spent time in Ireland as a student and had worked in Centra making the Irish food staple 'the chicken fillet roll'. Now it's probably a fair assessment to state that it is highly unlikely the Taoiseach has had ever had a chicken fillet roll, given his notorious health diet, but he laughed along nonetheless. Irish whiskey Showcasing what Ireland has to offer, such as Irish whiskey, was also on the agenda today, with the Taoiseach taking a meeting with Clonakilty Whiskey. Martin sipped on a 'White Lady' gin cocktail that had been made up for him, regaling how there was once a nightclub after the same name in Kinsale that he used to frequent. Japan is the second largest market in Asia for Irish whiskey and the opportunities are growing. In 2020, 55,000 cases of Irish whiskey were sold to Japan, with 206,000 cases sold last year. Related Reads This Irish embassy in Japan is the state's most expensive building constructed outside Ireland Over Guinness and Enya music, Martin talks trade, undersea cables and 'Bakebake' with Japanese PM The Journal / YouTube There was also traditional Irish music played today, not only by professionals, but by the Taoiseach today who took to the harp to play what he said was an 'experimental piece'. The day was rounded out with a showing of a new 'asadora' known as a morning drama TV series, which the Japanese people watch first thing in the morning. A staple of Japan's domestic entertainment industry, they are only around 15 minutes long. A screening of the new series was shown at the Ireland Pavilion today. Christina Finn / TheJournal Christina Finn / TheJournal / TheJournal The story of Lafcadio Hearn, who came from Ireland to Japan as a journalist in 1890 and married Koizumi Setsu, is being made into a new dramatisation. 'As you may know, the National Broadcaster NHK are retelling the story of Setsu and Hearn in their popular morning drama series, 'Baké, Baké, 'The Ghost Writer's wife' later this year,' he said. The Taoiseach said he hoped the mini-series could be shown in Ireland to foster the links between the two countries. Rounding out his speech, Martin said Expo proves that by working together great things can be achieved when there is unity of purpose. 'It shows us that time differences, cultural differences, and language barriers can be overcome to create something great. What has been achieved here is truly a beacon of light in these turbulent times,' he said, before raising his glass and toasting: 'To Ireland and Japan, to Unity in diversity. Sláinte, Kampai.' Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone... A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation. Learn More Support The Journal
The Sun
03-07-2025
- The Sun
Ryanair couple banned from boarding their flight and left £500 out of pocket due to confusing passport rule
A COUPLE with a sick child have revealed they were banned from a Ryanair flight, and forced to pay £500, due to a confusing rule. Christina and Cameron Finn travelled with their young son to London from Belfast for a CBeebies event. Unable To Check In They had no issues entering England, but on the way back, they travelled via Dublin and were met with a series of problems. The couple were unable to check in for their flight on the Ryanair website due to technical issues, meaning that when they arrived at Stansted, they had to pay a £55 fee for not checking in online. Then Ryanair asked for the couple's passports, which were both expired, as they had been waiting for their son to arrive before renewing them. On their easyJet flight to London, they had used their driving licenses, with no issues. However, Ryanair staff allegedly refused to accept their driving licences, stating that because Christina is British, she needs a visa to fly to Dublin because the Republic of Ireland is in the EU. Christina argued with staff that under the Common Travel Agreement, passports and visas are not required by British and Irish citizens travelling between the two countries. Banned From Flight However, she claims that Ryanair staff said that she would be stopped by passport control in Dublin who would fine the airline "between £500 and £1,000" for letting her on board without a passport. The pair, whose five-month-old baby was sick and required medication, were informed by staff that their only option was to buy last-minute flights to Belfast, which set them back £500. Confusing Rule Christina phoned her mother to ask her for help with the hefty cost, and her mother quickly checked the government website, where it states that no visa or passport is required by British and Irish citizens for travel between the two countries. "I decided to ring the British embassy in Dublin who directed me to call the Irish embassy in London and the woman on the phone was horrified", Christina told Belfast Live. Passengers injured on Ryanair flight after being thrown against the cabin roof as plane 'flew into supercell storm' "She said there was no need for a visa." However, the embassy worker added that airlines are allowed to impose their own strict ID policies. Ryanair has defended its actions, telling the Irish Mirror: "These passengers failed to check in online before arriving at London Stansted Airport (5 June). "Therefore, these passengers were correctly asked to pay the required airport check-in fee (£55 per passenger), however refused to do so, and became aggressive towards the agents at the check in desk at London Stansted Airport." Advice for flying with Ryanair All Ryanair passengers can bring a small personal bag on board but this must fit under the seat in front of you, but it must be no bigger than 40cm x 20cm x 25cm Any over-sized cabin bags will be refused at the boarding gate and put in the hold for a fee Ryanair also charges passengers up to £55 check-in at the airport Anyone who loses their card at the airport will have to pay a £20 reissue fee Book to sit in the front five rows if you want to head off the plane first Extra legroom seats can be found in rows 1 A, B, C or 2 D, E, F as well as row 16 and 17 near the emergency exit The worst seat on Ryanair's Boeing 737-800 aircraft is also 11A because of its lack of window. The Irish airline added that their terms and conditions state that all passengers must carry a valid passport when travelling between the UK and Ireland. Christina said that the ordeal made her feel like a "second-class citizen." Ryanair has been contacted for comment.
Daily Mail
01-07-2025
- Daily Mail
Ryanair refuses to let family fly over confusing passport rule
An Irish family with a sick child claimed they were wrongly denied boarding on a Ryanair flight after being incorrectly told they needed a visa to travel from the UK. Christina Finn, her husband Cameron and their five-month-old son had travelled to London from Belfast for a CBeebies event on 27 May without any issues. But on their return journey from Stansted Airport, they experienced a series of problems, beginning with technical issues while checking-in online. Speaking to Belfast Live, she said: 'It wouldn't let me click through to our booking at all and I thought the issue was with my phone so when we got to the airport, we had to check in at the desk where we then had to pay a fine for not checking in online.' Things took a turn when Ryanair asked for the couple's passports – an Irish one for Cameron and a British one for Christina, which were both expired. The pair had been waiting for their son to arrive before renewing their passports, and in the meantime were able to use their driving licences as a valid form of identification for their outbound flight on easyJet. However, Ryanair staff allegedly refused to accept the documents, stating that Christina, a UK citizen, needed a visa to fly to Dublin because the Republic of Ireland is in the EU. Christina said she tried to argue that under the Common Travel Area agreement between between the UK and Ireland, no passport or visa is required for British or Irish citizens to travel between the two countries. The mother also explained that they lived in Northern Ireland and regularly travelled through Dublin. But she claimed Ryanair insisted she would stopped at passport control in Dublin and the airline would be fined 'between £500 and £1,000' for letting her fly without a valid passport. The couple, who were left stranded with their sick baby who requires medication, were told their only option was to buy last-minute direct flights to Belfast for €580 (£497). Christina said she was forced to ask her mother for extra funding towards the flight costs. While on the phone, her mother checked the official government website, which stated that no passport or visa is required for travel between the UK and Ireland for British or Irish citizens. Christina added: 'I decided to ring the British embassy in Dublin who directed me to call the Irish embassy in London and the woman on the phone was horrified. She said there was no need for a visa.' However, the couple were warned by the embassy worker that airlines are allowed to impose stricter ID requirements as part of their own policies. Ryanair has since defended its actions, saying the couple had not checked in online as required and had presented expired passports at the airport. In a statement to the Irish Mirror, the airline said: 'These passengers failed to check-in online before arriving at London Stansted Airport (5 June). 'Therefore, these passengers were correctly asked to pay the required airport check-in fee (£55 per passenger), however refused to do so, and became aggressive towards the agents at the check in desk at London Stansted Airport.' The airline also stated that all passengers must carry a valid passport when flying between the UK and Ireland, as per Ryanair's terms and conditions agreed to at the time of booking. Christina, however, feels the entire experience made her feel like a 'second-class citizen.' The airline told MailOnline: 'Ryanair does not accept driving licenses as a valid travel document for travel between Ireland and the UK. 'Passengers must present a valid passport for travel which these passengers did not and were correctly denied boarding from this flight from London Stansted to Dublin.' Meanwhile, Ryanair hit back at a couple who vowed they will 'never fly with the airline again' after their decision to not pay extra to reserve seats ended up getting them kicked off the flight. Scott McCormick and his girlfriend, Helena Boshwick, both 33, were set to fly from Birmingham Airport on May 1 to Palma de Mallorca, Spain, for a week-long break and gym mentorship event. The couple chose not to reserve seats - which typically costs between £4.50 and £33 per seat - prior to boarding as they 'didn't mind' sitting apart during the two-hour flight.
Daily Mirror
01-07-2025
- Daily Mirror
Ryanair wouldn't board us over weird rule
Christina Finn and her family were flying back to Dublin from London Stansted with Ryanair on Sunday evening when they were refused boarding on their flight A family from Ireland has spoken out after they claimed Ryanair refused to let them board a flight from London to Dublin, erroneously informing them they needed a visa to travel from the UK to Ireland. Christina Finn and her husband, Cameron, were forced to miss their return trip to Dublin following a CBeebies event in London with their infant son when they were turned away by the budget carrier at Stansted Airport. The pair had travelled trouble-free to London from Belfast on Friday but encountered issues when attempting to return home. Christian said: "We had flown to London on Friday morning from Belfast for a meeting with the BBC, and we were to fly home from London to Dublin and then get the bus up to Belfast as that was the cheapest option, and it is something we would do all the time." The couple's journey hit a hitch when they struggled to check-in online due to technical issues which Christina initially thought were caused by her mobile phone, reports the Irish Mirror. Stranded with their ill five-month-old baby who requires regular medication, Christina emphasised the urgency of their need to return home. Christina said: "When we went to check in on the app, it wouldn't let me click through to our booking at all and I thought the issue was with my phone so when we got to the airport, we had to check in at the desk where we then had to pay a fine for not checking in online." Following the unexpected check-in fee at the airport, Christina explained that the Ryanair representative asked to see their passports, despite having used their driving licences for the outbound easyJet flight, and offered their slightly expired passports as identification. "My husband has an Irish passport and I have a British one, which have both recently expired. With the baby due, we were waiting until he was born to renew them so that we could just do it at the same time. "We informed the staff that we had flown over on our driving licences so he took them away and came back with a man who told us that because my husband has an expired Irish passport, he would be allowed on the flight to Dublin but as my passport was a British one they couldn't let me on the plane. "The staff informed me that as a UK citizen I would need a visa to travel to Ireland as it is in the EU and I tried to explain to them that that wouldn't apply due to the Common Travel Area. "I told him that we lived in Northern Ireland and he then questioned how I had a British passport and couldn't seem to understand that it was a pretty common thing for people to fly to Dublin then travel on to Belfast. He also said that we would need to have evidence that we had booked onward travel from Dublin to Belfast. "As I questioned it, he said that he was speaking to someone on the phone who told him that if they let us on the plane and if we arrived in Dublin we would be stopped at passport control and the airline would be fined between £500 and £1000 for allowing me on the plane without a valid passport." Christina revealed that the staff member advised the only solution to their problem would be to book a new direct flight to Belfast, which would cost them €580 (£554). In a frustrating situation, Christina had to turn to her mother for help with the flight costs. While sorting things out, her mother checked the official government website and found something that surprised them both. "We had to borrow the money from my mum for the flights and while I was on the phone to her she looked up the Government website which stated that you did not need a passport or visa to travel between the UK and Ireland. "She sent me a screenshot of this which I showed to the man and he said he would look into it then he walked away." Determined to get to the bottom of the issue, Christina phoned the British embassy in Dublin who referred her to their Irish counterparts in London. She said: "I decided to ring the British embassy in Dublin who directed me to call the Irish embassy in London and the woman on the phone was horrified. "She said that there was no requirement for people to have a passport for travelling between the UK and Ireland and that there was also no need for a visa." However, to her dismay, she discovered that Ryanair's own rules played a significant role in her travel woes. "However, she explained that Ryanair could have its own policy requiring travellers to have a passport." Feeling mistreated, Christina recounted how the incident left her feeling less than respected. A Ryanair spokesperson defended the airline's position, emphasising their policy and the customers' agreement to it. "In accordance with Ryanair's TandC's, which these passengers agreed to at the time of booking, these passengers failed to check-in online before arriving at London Stansted Airport (5 June). "Therefore, these passengers were correctly asked to pay the required airport check-in fee (£55 per passenger), however refused to do so, and became aggressive towards the agents at the check in desk at London Stansted Airport." They further reiterated the importance of abiding by their procedures. "All passengers travelling with Ryanair agree to check-in online before arriving at their departure airport and all passengers are sent an email reminding them to do so 24hrs before departure. "These passengers were subsequently correctly denied boarding to this flight from London Stansted to Dublin (5 June) as these passengers' passports did not meet the requirements for travel as both passports had expired in 2024. "It is each passenger's responsibility to ensure that their passport is valid for travel in line with the relevant State requirements at the time of travel. These requirements are clearly set out on and passengers are reminded with pop-up messages during booking. "Passengers travelling between Ireland and the UK are required to carry a valid passport for travel. Therefore, as these passengers did not present a valid passport for this flight from London Stansted to Dublin Airport, they were correctly denied boarding."
